In celebration of the twenty-fifth anniversary of India’s Independence—marked as the Silver Jubilee year—the Government of India launched a central scheme to honour and support the nation’s freedom fighters and their families. This special pension initiative, which began on August 15, 1972, was designed to provide financial assistance to those who played a key role in India’s struggle for freedom. Under this scheme, pensions were granted to living freedom fighters, their families after their passing, and to the families of martyrs who sacrificed their lives for the country. To further recognize and show gratitude to these national heroes, the Ministry of Home Affairs introduced the Swatantrata Sainik Samman Yojana (SSSY).
What is Swatantrata Sainik Samman Yojana (SSSY)?
Swatantrata Sainik Samman Yojana (SSSY) is a special monthly pension scheme introduced by the Government of India to provide financial support and social security to Indian freedom fighters and their families. The scheme recognizes the sacrifices made by those who played a crucial role in India’s struggle for independence, which may help them lead dignified and self-sufficient lives.
Under this scheme, freedom fighters receive a regular pension, and in the event of their passing, the pension is extended to eligible family members, such as spouses, unmarried daughters, and dependent parents. SSSY aims to honor the contributions of these national heroes and ensure that their dependents are financially supported according to established eligibility guidelines and procedures. Through this scheme, the government expresses its gratitude and respect for the courageous efforts of the freedom fighters who paved the way for India’s independence.
Eligibility Criteria for Swatantrata Sainik Samman Yojana
Here is a list of the eligibility criteria for SSSY.
- The dependents (such as family members) of freedom fighters who lost their lives due to their participation in India’s freedom struggle are eligible to receive the Samman Pension.
- Individuals who were imprisoned for at least six months due to their involvement in the freedom movement qualify for the pension.
- For women and individuals belonging to Scheduled Castes (SC) or Scheduled Tribes (ST), the minimum duration of imprisonment is reduced to three months.
- Individuals who went underground for more than six months to avoid arrest or suppression due to their active participation in the freedom struggle are eligible for the Samman Pension.
- Those whose properties were confiscated, damaged, or sold as a result of their participation in the freedom movement are eligible for this pension scheme.
- Individuals who suffered permanent disability from police firing, lathi (baton) charges, or any violent encounters during the freedom struggle are entitled to a pension under SSSY.
- Government employees who lost their jobs or were dismissed from service because of their involvement in the independence movement also qualify for the Samman Pension.
- Anyone who was subjected to severe physical punishment, such as 10 strokes of caning, flogging, or whipping, due to their role in the freedom struggle is eligible for the pension.
What are the Benefits Of the SSSY Scheme?
Here are the top benefits of Swatantrata Sainik Samman Yojana.
- Regular Monthly Income
One of the primary benefits of the SSSY scheme is that it provides a steady monthly pension, known as the Central Samman Pension. This financial aid is given to eligible freedom fighters, ensuring they have a stable source of income for the rest of their lives. Even after their passing, the pension is extended to their qualified dependents, such as their spouse, children, or parents.
- Financial Support for Dependents
Another major highlight of the scheme is that it ensures that the families of freedom fighters, particularly spouses, unmarried daughters, and parents, continue to receive financial assistance after the freedom fighter’s death. This provision is a lifeline for families who might otherwise struggle without the support of their loved ones.
- Promoting a Self-Reliant Life
By providing regular financial support, the SSSY helps freedom fighters and their dependents maintain their independence and lead dignified lives. This income allows them to improve their standard of living and take care of their daily needs without relying on external support, fostering a sense of pride and self-sufficiency.
- A Gesture of Respect and Gratitude
Last but not least, the Swatantrata Sainik Samman Yojana is not just about financial aid; it is also a heartfelt tribute to the extraordinary contributions of freedom fighters. Through this scheme, the government recognises and honours the sacrifices made by those who risked their lives and livelihoods for the nation’s independence. It is a lasting symbol of the nation’s gratitude for their courage and dedication during India’s fight for freedom.
What is the Swatantrata Sainik Samman Pension Amount?
Let’s take a look at the amount that would be disbursed under the scheme based on the category of freedom fighters.
| Category of Freedom Fighter | Present amount of pension including DR (per month) | Proposed enhanced amount pension (Per month) | Net increase in total amount of pension (Per month) | No. of Pensioners |
| Ex-Andaman Political/pensioner/spouses | Rs. 24, 775 | Rs. 30,000 | Rs. 5,225 | 17 |
| Freedom Fighters who suffered outside British India/spouses | Rs. 23,085 | Rs. 28,000 | Rs. 4,915 | 0 |
| Other freedom fighters/spouses including INA | Rs. 21,395 | Rs. 26,000 | Rs. 4,605 | 36,465 |
| Dependent parents/eligible daughters (maximum 3 daughters at any point of time) | Rs.3,380 (dependent parents)
Rs. 5,070 (daughters) | 50% of the sum that would have been admissible to the Freedom Fighter, i.e., in the range of Rs. 13,000 to Rs. 15,000 | Rs. 7,930 | 1499 (unmarried and unemployed daughters- 1499). |
Who Is Ineligible to Receive a Pension Under the SSSY Scheme?
The Swatantrata Sainik Samman Yojana (SSSY) scheme has certain conditions under which eligible dependents, such as the spouse or daughter of a freedom fighter, may not receive the pension. Here are the key circumstances where pension payments are restricted:
- Employed in Government or Public Sector Jobs
If the freedom fighter’s spouse or daughter is employed with the Central or State Government, a Central/State Public Sector Undertaking (PSU), or a local body and their income from the job exceeds Rs. 2,40,000 annually (Rs. 20,000 per month), they are not eligible to receive the pension.
- Private Sector Jobs or Own Business
If the spouse or daughter is working in the private sector or running their own business, and their income from these activities exceeds Rs. 2,40,000 per year (Rs. 20,000 per month), they will also not qualify for the pension.
- Receiving Pension or Salary from Other Sources
If the spouse or daughter is already receiving a pension or salary due to their own employment or from the benefits of the deceased freedom fighter’s previous job, and the income from these sources exceeds Rs. 2,40,000 per year or Rs. 20,000 per month, they are not eligible for the Samman Pension.
How To Apply for Swatantrata Sainik Samman Yojana (SSSY)?
When it comes to applying for the Swatantrata Sainik Samman Yojana (SSSY), eligible individuals must complete the application process with careful attention to detail. Applicants are required to fill out the prescribed application form in duplicate. One copy of the filled application, along with all necessary documents that serve as proof of their participation and suffering during the freedom struggle, should be submitted to the Chief Secretary of the respective State Government or Union Territory Administration.
Simultaneously, applicants must send a second copy of the application as an advance copy to the Deputy Secretary at the Ministry of Home Affairs, Freedom Fighter Division, located in the NDCC-II Building, Jai Singh Road, New Delhi – 110001.
Conclusion
So, there you have it! The Swatantrata Sainik Samman Yojana serves as a vital retirement scheme that provides a monthly pension to honor the invaluable contributions of India’s freedom fighters. Understanding the importance of saving for retirement is crucial, as a well-structured retirement plan can significantly enhance your financial future. Beyond just providing a pension, retirement schemes can offer various additional benefits that are often overlooked, such as guaranteed returns, a steady income stream, and potential tax advantages.
